A

Anthony Hopkins Quotes

Actor

Memorable Quotes from Anthony Hopkins

100 quotes
Navigating Life's Challenges Despite Feeling Lost
Charles Morse Just because you're lost doesn't mean to say that your compass is broken.
Embracing Uncertainty in Life's Possibilities
William Parrish You never know, lightning could strike.
The Urgency of Ending Slavery
Theodore Joadson There remains one task undone. One vital task the Founding Fathers left to their sons...
John Quincy Adams Yes?
Theodore Joadson ...before their thirteen colonies could precisely be called United States. And that task, Sir, as you well know, is crushing slavery.
Inquiry About Origins and Identity
John Quincy Adams What is their story, by the way?
Theodore Joadson Sir?
John Quincy Adams What is their story?
Theodore Joadson Why, they're um...they're from west Africa.
John Quincy Adams No. What is their story? Mr. Joadson, you're from where originally?
[Joadson exhales and looks confused]
Theodore Joadson Why, Georgia, sir.
John Quincy Adams Georgia.
Theodore Joadson Yes, sir.
John Quincy Adams Does that pretty much sum up what you are? A Georgian? Is that your story? No...you're an ex-slave who's devoted his life to the abolition of slavery, and overcoming the obstacles and hardships along the way, I should imagine. That's your story, isn't it? You and this young so-called lawyer have proven you know what they are. They're Africans. Congratulations. What you don't know, and as far as I can tell haven't bothered in the least to discover, is who they are. Right?
[Joadson smiles and nods; laughs]
Determination in a Dangerous Situation
Charles Morse Because today, I'm going to kill the motherfucker!
Cherishing Every Moment in Life
Ted Brautigan I wouldn't have missed a single minute of it, Bobby. Not for the whole world.
Perceptions of Identity and Aspiration
Richard Nixon When they look at you, they see who they want to be. They look at me and they see what they are.
[to a portrait of John F. Kennedy]
Caution Against Ignoring Evil's Existence
Father Lucas Trevant Be careful Michael, choosing not to believe in the devil doesn't protect you from him.
The Value of Integrity in Journalism
William Parrish Thank you, Drew. Yeah. I did enjoy—or rather I was interested in meeting John Bontecou, yesterday. And—impressive, I suppose. But... But, it did get me to thinking. See, I started in this business because this is what I wanted to do. I knew I wasn't going to write the great American novel, but I also knew there was more to life than buying something for a dollar and selling it for two. I'd hoped to create something, something which could be held to the highest standards. And what I realized was I wanted to give the news to the world, and I wanted to give it unvarnished. The more we all know about each other, the greater the chance we will survive. Sure, I want to make a profit. You can't exist without one. But John Bontecou is all profit. Now if we give him license to absorb Parrish Communications, and he has his eye on a few others after us, in order to reach the world you will have to go through John Bontecou. And not only will you have to pay him to do this, far more important, you'll have to agree with him. Reporting the news is a privilege and a responsibility, and it is not exploitable. Parrish Communications has earned this privilege. John Bontecou wants to buy it. As your Chairman, I urge you to agree this company is not for sale.
Misplaced Timing and Implicit Threats
William Parrish You're at the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong woman!
Joe Black Are you threatening me?
William Parrish Yeah, I certainly hope so.
A Tempting Dish with a Dark Secret
Dinner Guest Hannibal, confess. What is this divine-looking amuse-bouche?
Hannibal Lecter I'm afraid if I tell you, you won't even try it.
[smiles deviously]
Understanding Love versus Infatuation
Joe Black I don't care, Bill. I love her.
William Parrish How perfect for you - to take whatever you want because it pleases you. That's not love.
Joe Black Then what is it?
William Parrish Some aimless infatuation which, for the moment, you feel like indulging - it's missing everything that matters.
Joe Black Which is what?
William Parrish Trust, responsibility, taking the weight for your choices and feelings, and spending the rest of your life living up to them. And above all, not hurting the object of your love.
Joe Black So that's what love is, according to William Parrish?
William Parrish Multiply it by infinity, and take it to the depth of forever, and you will still have barely a glimpse of what I'm talking about.
Joe Black Those were my words.
William Parrish They're mine now.
Struggle Between Faith and Doubt
Father Lucas Trevant The interesting thing about skeptics, atheists, is that we're always looking for proof, certainty. The question is, "what on earth would we do if we found it?" There are times when I experience a total loss of faith. Days, months, when I don't know what I believe in: God, or the devil, Santa Claus, or Tinker Bell. But, I'm just a man. I'm a weak man. I have no power. Yet, there's something that keeps digging and scraping away, inside me. Feel's like God's fingernail. And finally I can take no more of the pain, and I get shoved out from the darkness, back into the light.
Politics Intertwined with Personal Life
Pat Nixon This isn't political, Dick. This is our life.
Richard Nixon Everything's political, for Christ's sake! I'm political! You're political!
Embracing My Life's Journey
Burt Munro Its my ruddy life
Struggles of Independence and Family Dynamics
Anthony Let me explain. My daughter is of the opinion that I can’t manage on my own. So she’s moved in with me. Ostensibly to help me. With this man she met not long ago, just after her divorce, who has a very bad influence on her, I have to tell you.
Anne Look, what are you talking about, Dad?
Anthony And now she’d like to convince me that I can’t manage on my own. The next stage will be to send me away I don’t know where... Obviously, it’ll be a much more efficient way of getting hold of my flat.
Anne Dad...
Anthony But it’s not going to happen that way. I may as well tell you. I have no intention of leaving any time soon. No, you heard me. I intend to outlive you. Both of you. Yes. Well, I don’t know about you... But my daughter, yes. I shall make a point of it. I’m going to inherit from her. Not the other way round. The day of her funeral, I shall give a little speech to remind everyone how heartless and manipulative she was.
A Request for Assistance in Investigation
Will Graham I need your help, Dr. Lecter.
Hannibal Lecter Birmingham and Atlanta. You want to know how he's choosing them, don't you?
Will Graham Yes.
Hannibal Lecter Why should I?
Will Graham There are things you don’t have - books, library privileges, maybe even computer access. I'll speak to the Chief of Staff.
Hannibal Lecter Ah, yes, Dr. Chilton. Gruesome, isn't he? Fumbles at your head like a freshman at a panty girdle. If you’ll recall, Will, our last collaboration ended rather messily.
Will Graham And there’s another reason.
Hannibal Lecter I’m all ears.
Will Graham I thought you might enjoy the challenge. Find out if you're smarter than the person I'm looking for.
Hannibal Lecter Then by implication, you think you are smarter than I am, since it was you who caught me.
Will Graham No, I know I'm not smarter than you.
Hannibal Lecter Then, how did you catch me?
Will Graham It's all in the transcripts. What does it matter now?
Hannibal Lecter It doesn't matter to me, Will.
Will Graham You had... disadvantages.
Hannibal Lecter What disadvantages?
Will Graham ... You're insane.
Hannibal Lecter You’re very tan, Will. And your hands are so rough, not like a cop’s hands, anymore. That lotion is something a child would select. It has a ship on the bottle, does it not? And how is young Josh, and the lovely Molly? They’re always in my thoughts, you know.
[pause; menacing]
Legacy of Worthiness and Honor
Odin One son who wanted the throne too much, and another who will not take it. Is this my legacy?
Thor Loki died with honour. I shall try to live the same. Is that not legacy enough?
[''Offers the hammer'']
Odin It belongs to you, if you are worthy of it.
Thor I shall try to be.
Odin I can not give you my blessing, nor can I wish you good fortune.
Thor I know.
[''Turns to leave'']
Odin If I were proud of the man my son has become, even that I could not say, it would speak only from my heart. Go, my son.
Thor Thank you, Father.
[''Leaves'']
Loki No... thank you.
[''Appears from Odin's guise'']
Voting Motivated by Fear, Not Love
Richard Nixon Buddy, before you join the jubilation at my being beaten again, you should remember: people vote not out of love, but fear. They don't teach that at Sunday School or the Whittier Community Playhouse!
Amistad - John Quincy Adams
John Quincy Adams This is the most important case ever to come before this court. Because what it in fact concerns is the very nature of man.
[to the Supreme Court]
Odin's Reflection on Home
Odin Remember this place, Home.
[Last words]
Timing and Opportunity in Pursuit of Dreams
Burt Munro If you don't go when you want to go, when you do go, you'll find you've gone.
Unexpected Discoveries and Consequences in the Archive
Hannibal Lecter Beneath the yellow folder, you'll find your latest rejection slip from the archives. It was brought to me by mistake with some of my archives mail. I'm afraid I opened it without looking. Sorry.
Dr. Frederick Chilton I think we'll remove Dr. Lecter's toilet seat as well
Desire for Independence and Isolation
Anthony I don't need any help from anyone. And I'm not going to leave my flat. All I want is for everyone to fuck off. Having said that... it's been a great pleasure. Au revoir. Toodle-oo.
The Importance of Leadership in Society
Sir Edmund Burton Without leaders, chaos reigns.
The Limits of Wealth and Happiness
William Parrish You know about money, don't you?
Joe Black It can't buy happiness?
Questioning Identity and Self-Understanding
Anthony Who exactly am I?
Questioning Identity and Beliefs
Anthony Can I ask you a question?
Laura Yes.
Anthony Are you a nun?
Laura No.
Anthony Then why are you speaking to me as if I'm retarded?
Accountability in the Face of Scandal
Richard Nixon John, I want you to get away from this madhouse, these reporters, and go up to Camp David for the weekend. And I want you to write up a report. I want you to put everything you know about Watergate in there.
[putting his arm around him]
John Dean You want me to put it all in writing. Over my signature.
Richard Nixon Well, nobody knows more about this thing than you do, John. The details, that stuff, I don't know about.
John Dean Sir, I'm not going to be the scapegoat for this. Haldeman and Ehrlichman are in just as deep as me.
Confrontation Over Responsibility and Protection
Thor Why did you bring us back?
Odin Do you realize what you've done? What you've started?
Thor I was protecting my home.
Odin You cannot even protect your friends! How can you hope to protect a kingdom? Get him to a healing room! Now!
[Throws Heimdall the sword. Heimdall catches it. He turns to Fandral, who was injured in the fight]
Thor There won't be a kingdom to protect if you're afraid to act. The Jotuns must learn to fear me, just as they once feared you.
Odin That's pride and vanity talking, not leadership. You've forgotten everything I taught you about a warrior's patience.
Thor While you wait and be patient, the Nine Realms laugh at us. The old ways are done. You'd stand giving speeches while Asgard falls!
[Getting frustrated]
Odin YOU ARE A VAIN, GREEDY, CRUEL BOY!!!
[Suddenly shouting]
Thor AND YOU ARE AN OLD MAN AND A FOOL!!!
[Just as loud]
Odin Yes. I was a fool... to think you were ready.
[Hesitantly, obviously hurt]
Loki Father–
Odin HAEEERGH!!! Thor Odinson, you have betrayed the express command of your king. Through your arrogance and stupidity, you have opened these peaceful realms and innocent lives to the horror and desolation of ]! You are unworthy of these realms! Unworthy of your title! You're unworthy! Of the loved ones you have betrayed. I now take from you your power! In the name of my father and his father before, I, Odin Allfather, CAST YOU OUT!!! Whosoever holds this hammer, if he be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor.
[To Loki; To Thor; [WAR; starts stripping Thor's armor; seizes Mjolnir; removes arm braces; Banishes Thor to Earth; whispers to Mjolnir; Throws Mjolnir to Earth]
Father-Son Legacy and Royal Conflict
Phillip II You — you made my father nothing. You humiliated him, beat him down in every war, bellied with his wife, you played mock the monk — and you made him love you for it. I was there. His last words were to you.
Henry II He was a loving man and you've learned nothing from him.
Phillip II I've learned how much fathers live in sons. A king like you has policy on everything. Tell me, what's the official line on sodomy? How stands the crown on boys who do with boys?
Henry II Richard finds his way into so many legends. Let's hear yours and see how it measures up.
Phillip II I was 15 when he found me. He took me hunting. I had fallen from my horse, and I awoke to Richard touching me. He asked me if I loved him — "Oh, Phillip, do you love me?" I told him yes, and do you know why I told him yes? So that someday I could tell you all about it. You cannot imagine what that "yes" cost me. Imagine snuggling up to a chancred whore and pulling your lips back into something like a smile and saying, "Oh yes, I love you and I find you beautiful." I don't know how I did it.
[with relish]
Richard NO! It wasn't like that!
Phillip II Oh, but it was.
[coldly]
Richard You...you loved me.
[hurt]
Phillip II Never.
[amused]
The Definitive Kiss That Sets Standards
Ted Brautigan It will be the kiss by which all others in your life will be judged... and found wanting.
Living Fully in Moments of Speed
Burt Munro You live more in 5 minutes on a bike like this going flat out than some people live in their lifetime.
The Fundamental Nature of Human Freedom
John Quincy Adams Well, gentlemen, I must say I differ with the keen minds of the South and with our President, who apparently shares their views, offering that the natural state of mankind is instead - and I know this is a controversial idea - is freedom. Is freedom. And the proof is the length to which a man, woman or child will go to regain it once taken. He will break loose his chains. He will decimate his enemies. He will try and try and try, against all odds, against all prejudices, to get home.
[to the Supreme Court]
The Intersection of Power and Mortality
Richard Nixon You see, when I saw ] lying there on the floor, arms stretched out, his eyes staring... I knew then I'd be President. His death paved the way, didn't it? Vietnam, the Kennedys, cleared a path through the wilderness just for me. Over the bodies. Four bodies.
[[Robert Kennedy|Bobby]
H. R. Haldeman You mean two. Two bodies.
Richard Nixon Four.
Richard Nixon How many did you have? Hundreds of thousands? Where would we be without death? Abe? Who's helping us? Is it God or is it death?
Human potential knows no bounds
Charles Morse What one man can do, another can do!
Planning a Day Out Together
The Woman First... we'll get dressed, shall we?
Anthony Yes.
The Woman We'll get dressed, and then we'll go for a walk in the park, shall we?
Anthony Yes.
The Woman Good. The trees and all the leaves. Then we'll come back here, and we'll have something to eat.
Anthony Yes.
The Woman And then you can have your siesta, alright?
Anthony Yes.
The Woman And then if you're feeling on good form, we can go for another little walk in the park. Just the two of us.
Anthony Yeah.
The Woman Because it's such a lovely day.
Anthony Yeah.
The Woman It's sunny outside. And we have to go while it's sunny. We have to take that chance.
Anthony Yeah.
The Woman Cause it never lasts long when the weather's this good, does it?
Anthony No.
The Woman So... let's get dressed. Is that alright?
Anthony No.
The Woman Come on now.
Anthony No.
The Woman Come on, baby. It's all right. Come on... Shh. Easy now. Easy. You're going to feel all right in a minute, I promise you. Everything will be alright.
Seasoning with Unconventional Ingredients
Robert Green Wish we had some salt.
[Eating]
Charles Morse You know, you can, uh... you can season meat with gunpowder. Did you know that?
Robert Green Wish we had some gunpowder.
Perception and the Consequences of Inaction
Hannibal Lecter You sensed who I was back when I was committing what you call "my crimes".
Will Graham Yes.
Hannibal Lecter So you were hurt, not by a fault in your perception or your instincts, but because you failed to act on them until it was too late.
Will Graham You could say that.
Hannibal Lecter But you're wiser now.
Will Graham Yes.
Hannibal Lecter Imagine what you would do, Will, if you could go back in time.
Will Graham Put two in your head before you could palm that stiletto.
Hannibal Lecter Very good, Will. You know, I believe we're making progress.
[smiles]
Nixon's Farewell to the Press
Richard Nixon I believe Governor Brown has a heart, even though he believes I do not. I believe he's a good American, even though he feels I am not. I'm proud of the fact that I defended my opponent's patriotism. You gentlemen didn't report it, but I'm proud that I did that. And I would appreciate it for once, gentlemen, if you would just print what I say. For sixteen years, ever since the Hiss case, you've had a lot of fun - a lot of fun. But recognize you have a responsibility, if you're against the candidate, to give him the shaft, but if you do that, at least put one lonely reporter on the campaign who will report what the candidate says now and then. I think, all-in-all, I've given as good as I've taken. But as I leave you I-I want you to know—just think what you're gonna be missing. You won't have Nixon to kick around any more - uh, uh, because, gentlemen, this is my last press conference. Thank you and good day.
[echoes]
Amistad - Dialogue 8
John Quincy Adams Now, you understand you're going to the Supreme Court. Do you know why?
Ens. Covey It is the place where they finally kill us.
[translating for Cinque]
The Endurance of Darkness Before Creation
Odin Some believe that before the universe, there was nothing. They're wrong. There was darkness…and it has survived.
The Cost of Peace in Vietnam
Richard Nixon Well, probably most of you think I'm a real SOB. I know that. I understand how you feel, but you know, I want peace too. But peace with honor.
[speaking to a group of young protestors outside the Lincoln Memorial]
Student #2 What does that mean?
Richard Nixon Well, you can't have peace without a price. Sometimes you have to be willing to fight for peace, and sometimes to die.
Student #2 Yeah? Tell that to the GI's who are gonna die tomorrow in Vietnam.
Student #1 What you have to understand, Mr. Nixon, is we're willing to die for what we believe in.
Richard Nixon Look, that man up there, he lived in similar times. He had chaos and civil war and hatred between the races. Sometimes I go to the Lincoln room at the White House and just pray. But you know, liberals act like idealism belongs to them. That's not true. My family went Republican because Lincoln freed the slaves. My grandmother was an abolitionist, those Quakers who founded Whittier, my hometown... to abolish slavery. They were, y'know, conservative Bible folk, but they had a powerful sense of right and wrong. And 40 years ago, I was like you, looking for answers.
[Turns and points to the statue of Lincoln]
Richard Nixon It's OK, Bob, we're just rapping, my friends and I. In fact we agree on a lot of things, don't we?
Young Student No, we don't! You say you want to end the war, so why don't you?
Richard Nixon Change always comes slowly. I pulled out more than half the troops. I'm trying to cut the military budget for the first time in 30 years. I want a volunteer army. But it's also a question of American credibility, our position in the world.
Student #1 Come on, Mr. Nixon. It's a civil war between Vietnamese.
Young Student You don't want the war, we don't want the war, the Vietnamese don't want the war, so why does it go on?
Young Student You can't stop it, can you? Even if you wanted to. Because it's not you, it's the system. The system won't let you stop it.
Richard Nixon There's... there's more at stake here than what you want, or what I want.
Young Student Then what's the point? What's the point of being President? You're powerless!
Richard Nixon No. No, I'm not powerless. Because, because I understand the system, I believe I can, uh, I can control it. Maybe not control it totally, but tame it enough to make it do some good.
Young Student Sounds like you're talking about a wild animal.
Richard Nixon Yeah, maybe I am.
The Rise and Fall of the Dark Elves
Odin Long before the birth of light, there was darkness...and from that darkness came the Dark Elves. Millennia ago, the most ruthless of their kind, Malekith, sought to transform our universe back into one of eternal night. Such evil was possible through the power of the Aether, an ancient force of infinite destruction. The noble armies of Asgard, led by my father King Bor, waged a mighty war against these creatures. As the Nine Worlds converged above him, Malekith could at last unleash the Aether...but Asgard ripped the weapon from his grasp; without it, the Dark Elves fell. With the battle all but lost, Malekith sacrificed his own people in a desperate attempt to lay waste to Asgard's army. Malekith was vanquished and the Aether was no more. Or so we were led to believe.
Sacrifice in Life and Death
Reporter #1 Mr. Morse, what happened to your friends?
Reporter #2 How did they die?
Charles Morse They died... saving my life.
A Family Conflict Over Sacrifice and Loyalty
Loki What are you doing? IF YOU DESTROY THE BRIDGE, YOU'LL NEVER SEE HER AGAIN!
[Gets up and tries to prevent Thor from destroying the Bridge]
Thor Forgive me, Jane.
Loki I could have done it, Father! I could have done it! For you! For all of us!
Odin No, Loki.
Thor Loki, no! NO!
[Loki lets go and falls into space]
Odin No.
Jane It's gone.
[Sees anomaly disappear on telescope]
A Preference for Cold Lamb Sandwiches
William Parrish My wife turned me on to cold lamb sandwiches. Not as chewy as roast beef. Not as boring as chicken. She knew stuff like that.
Unwelcome Guests at Dinner Party
William Parrish When I introduce you, and I tell them who you are, I don't think anyone will stay for dinner.
The Difficulty of Letting Go
William Parrish It's hard to let go, isn't it?
Joe Black Yes it is, Bill.
William Parrish Well, that's life. What can I tell you?
Life's Tests Arrive Unpredictably and Unfavorably
Charles Morse We're all put to the test... but it never comes in the form or at the point we would prefer, does it?
The Importance of Love in Life
William Parrish Love is passion, obsession, someone you can't live without. I say fall head over heels, find someone you can love like crazy and who'll love you the same way back. How do you find him? Well, you forget your head and you listen to your heart and I'm not hearing any heart. Because, the truth is there is no sense living your life without this. To make the journey and not fall deeply in love - well, you haven't lived a life at all. But you have to try, because if you haven't tried, you haven't lived... Stay open, who knows? Lightning could strike.
The Cost of Hatred and Self-Destruction
Richard Nixon Always remember: others may hate you. But those who hate you don't win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.
Perception of Death and Innocence
William Parrish You're not Death. You're just a kid in a suit.
Reflections on Life and Memories
William Parrish I thought I was going to sneak away tonight. What a glorious night! Every face I see is a memory. It may not be a perfectly... perfect memory. Sometimes we've had our ups and downs, but we're all together, And you're mine, for a night. And I'm going to break precedence and tell you my one candle wish: that you would have a life as lucky as mine, where you can wake up one morning and say, "I don't want anything more." 65 years... Don't they go by in a blink?
Christmas Cards and Unwanted Gifts
Hannibal Lecter That's the same atrocious aftershave you wore in court.
Will Graham I keep getting it for Christmas.
Hannibal Lecter Christmas, yes. Did you get my card?
Will Graham I got it. Thank you.
[uncomfortable]
Hannibal Lecter So nice of the bureau to forward it for me. You know, they wouldn't give me your home address.
The Legacy of Asgard's Warriors
Odin Once, mankind accepted a simple truth: that they were not alone in this universe. Some worlds man believed home to their Gods. Others they knew to fear. From a realm of cold and darkness came the Frost Giants, threatening to plunge the mortal world into a new ice age. But humanity would not face this threat alone. Our armies drove the Frost Giants back into the heart of their own world. The cost was great. In the end, their king fell, and the source of their power was taken from them. With the last great war ended, we withdrew from the other worlds and returned home at the Realm Eternal, Asgard. And here we remain as the beacon of hope, shining out across the stars. And though we have fallen into man's myths and legends, it was Asgard and its warriors that brought peace to the universe.
Change and Departure in Family Dynamics
Anne I’m going to have to move, Dad. I’m going to have to leave London.
Anthony Really? Why?
Anne We talked about this. Do you remember?
Anthony Is that why you’re so keen on this nurse living with me? Well, obviously it is. The rats are leaving the ship.
Anne I won’t be here, Dad. I won’t be able to come here everyday. You need to understand that.
Anthony You’re leaving? When? I mean...why?
Anne I’ve met someone.
Anthony You?
Anne Yes.
Anthony You mean... a man?
Anne Yes.
Anthony Really?
Anne You needn’t sound so surprised.
Anthony No, it’s just that... since your... What was his name?
Anne James.
Anthony That’s right. You have to admit, since James, there hasn’t been a lot of... What’s he do, anyway?
Anne He lives in Paris. I’m going to go and live there.
Anthony What, you? In Paris? You’re not going to do that, are you, Anne? I mean, wake up... They don’t even speak English. Do I know him?
[pause]
Anne Yes. You’ve met him.
Anthony So, if I understand correctly, you’re leaving me. Is that it? You’re abandoning me...
[pause]
Anne Dad...
Anthony What’s going to become of me?
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Charles Morse For all my life, I've have wanted to do something that was, um, that was unequivocal.
[after successfully fighting a bear]
Robert Green Well, Charlie, I certainly think this qualifies.
Charles Morse Or something.
Robert Green See, Charles, that's why they call it personal growth. A month ago, old Smokey here would've reared up, you probably would've called your lawyer!
Charles Morse Nah, I wouldn't do that to an animal.
The Power of Belief in Confronting Fear
Father Lucas Trevant The terror is real, Michael. It's real. But you'll only defeat it when you believe. So go now, lock me up. Go now. Lock me up!
The Cost of Shame in Survival
Charles Morse You know, I once read an interesting book which said that, uh, most people lost in the wilds, they, they die of shame.
Stephen What?
Charles Morse Yeah, see, they die of shame. "What did I do wrong? How could I have gotten myself into this?" And so they sit there and they... die. Because they didn't do the one thing that would save their lives.
Robert Green And what is that, Charles?
Charles Morse Thinking.
Sibling Rivalry and Indifference in Adversity
John What about poor John? No one ever says "poor John." My God, if I went-up in flames there's not a living soul who'd pee on me to put the fire out.
Richard Let's strike a flint and see.
Aspirations of Speed and Adventure
Antarctic Angel Good luck, mate. Show em Kiwis can fly too, eh?
Burt Munro Right. I'll bring you back the Statue of Liberty!
Nixon's Struggle for Self-Preservation
Richard Nixon This is about me. Why can't you understand that, you of all people? It's not the war—it's Nixon! They want to destroy Nixon! And if I expose myself even the slightest bit they'll tear my insides out. Do you want that? Do you want to see that, Buddy? It's not pretty.
Fears of Loss and Disorientation
Anthony I am worried. It's very worrying. I mean... Losing all my things, everyone's just helping themselves, and... If this goes on much longer, um, I'll be stark naked. And, um, I... I won't be able to tell what time it is.
The Illusion of Childhood Happiness
Ted Brautigan You know, when you're young, you have moments of such happiness, you think you're living in someplace magical, like Atlantis must have been. Then we grow up, and our hearts break in two.
A Mysterious Encounter Between Life and Death
William Parrish Hello? Is anyone here? I said is anyone here?
[Louder]
Death Quiet down
[Bill's voice]
William Parrish Where are you?
Death I'm here
William Parrish What is this a joke, right? Some kind of elaborate practical joke? Heh, at my fortieth reunion we delivered a casket to the class presidents hotel room and uh--
Death Quiet
Death Where are you going, Bill?
William Parrish I uh...
Death The great Bill Parrish at a loss of words? The man from whose lips fall "rapture" and "passion" and "obsession"? All those admonitions about being "deliriously happy, that there is no sense in living your life without" all the sparks and energy you give off, the rosy advice you dispense in round pear shaped tones.
William Parrish What the hell is this? Who are you?
[Creaking, a shape appears in faded window]
Death Just think of millenniums, multiplied by eons, compounded by time without end. I've been around that long. But it's only recently your affairs here have piqued my interest. Call it boredom. The natural curiosity of me, the most lasting and significant element in existence has come to see you.
William Parrish About what?
Death I want to have a look around before I take you.
William Parrish Take me where?
Death It requires competence wisdom and experience, all those things they say about you in testimonials. And you’re the one.
William Parrish The one to do what?
Death Show me around, be my guide. And in return you get...
William Parrish I get what?
Death Time. Minutes, days, weeks, let's not get encumbered by detail, what matters is that I stay interested. Yes...
[Pause]
William Parrish Yes what?
Death Yes is the answer to your question.
William Parrish What question?
Death Oh Bill, come on. The question. The question you've been asking yourself with increased regularity, at odd moments, panting through the extra game of handball, when you ran for the plane in Delhi, when you sat up in bed last night and hit the floor in the office this morning. The question that is in the back of your throat, choking the blood to your brain, ringing in your ears over and over as you put it to yourself.
William Parrish The question'...
Death Yes Bill. The question. The question.
[Moves from behind the glass into shadowy area]
William Parrish ...'Am I going to die?
Joe Black Yes.
[Steps out of the shadows, appearing as Joe Black for the first time]
Embrace Joy Through Song and Dance
William Parrish I want you to sing with rapture and dance like a dervish.
The Influence of Environment on Criminal Behavior
Hannibal Lecter What were the yards like?
Will Graham Big back yards, why?
Hannibal Lecter Because if our pilgrim feels he has a special relationship with the moon, he might want to go out and look at it. Have you ever seen blood in the moonlight, Will? It appears quite black. If one were nude, say, one would want outdoor privacy for that sort of thing.
Will Graham You think that would be a factor when he chooses a victim?
Hannibal Lecter Oh, yes. And there will be more of them, of course... victims. So, you'll be wanting lots of these little chin-wags, I take it?
Will Graham I might not have time.
Hannibal Lecter Oh, but I do. I have oodles.
Will Graham I need your opinion now.
Hannibal Lecter Then here's one... you stink of fear under that cheap lotion. You stink of fear, Will, but you're not a coward. You fear me, but still you came here. You fear this shy boy, yet still you seek him out. Don't you understand, Will? You caught me because we're very much alike. Without our imaginations, we'd be like all those other poor... dullards. Fear... is the price of our instrument. But I can help you bear it.
Nixon's Struggle with Public Life
Richard Nixon I hate these cocktail parties. John, I'm in hell. I'll be mentally dead in two years and physically dead in four.
John Mitchell Make some money, Dick. Prove yourself to the Wall Street crowd. Let ] and ] take the fall against ].
[[Barry Goldwater|Goldwater; [w:Nelson Rockefeller|Rockefeller; [John F. Kennedy|Kennedy]
Richard Nixon I don't know why. I miss making love to the people. I miss entering a room. I miss the pure acting of it, John. I gotta get back in the arena.
A Father's Pride and a Son's Promise
Odin You'll be a wise king.
Thor There will never be a wiser king than you– nor a better father. I have– much to learn. I know that, now. Someday, perhaps– I shall make you proud.
[Long pause]
Odin You've already made me proud.
Facing Fear with Confidence
William Parrish Should I be afraid?
Joe Black Not a man like you.
The Power of Storytelling in the Courtroom
John Quincy Adams Well when I was an attorney, a long time ago, young man, I err...I realized after much trial and error, that in the courtroom, whoever tells the best story wins. In unlawyer-like fashion, I give you that scrap of wisdom free of charge.
A Challenge to Prove One's Words
Antarctic Angel I don't think so, granddad!
Burt Munro Well, why don't you put your money where your mouth is?
The Value of Common Lives and Contributions
Richard Nixon There are many fine careers. This country needs good farmers, good businessmen, good plumbers, good carpenters. I remember my old man. I think that they would have called him sort of a, sort of a little man, common man. Well, he didn't consider himself that way. You know what he was? He was a streetcar motorman first. Then he was a farmer, and then he had a lemon ranch. It was the poorest lemon ranch in California, I can assure you. He sold it before they found oil on it. And then he was a grocer. But he was a great man because he did his job, and every job counts, up to the hilt, regardless of what happened. Nobody will ever write a book, probably, about my mother. Well, I guess all of you would say this about your mother. But my mother was a saint. When I think of her two boys dying of tuberculosis, and seeing each of them die, and when they died. Yes, she will have no books written about her. But, she was a saint. Now, however, we look to the future. I remember something, uh, Theodore Roosevelt wrote when his first wife died in his twenties. He thought the light had gone from his life forever. But he went on and he not only became President, but as an ex-President he served his country, always in the arena, tempestuous, strong, sometimes right, sometimes wrong, but he was a man.
[saying farewell to his staff]
The Nature of Thought and Decision-Making
William Parrish You know, I got to thinking. With you here and seemingly occupied, how's your work going, I mean, elsewhere?
[Walking along a crowded sidewalk]
Joe Black While you were shaving this morning, you weren't just shaving.
William Parrish What do you mean?
Joe Black You were hatching ideas, making plans, arriving at decisions, right?
William Parrish Yeah, I guess so
Joe Black So you get the concept. While part of you is doing one thing, another part of you is doing another, perhaps even attending to the problems of your work. Correct?
William Parrish Of course
Joe Black So you understand the idea. Congratulations, Bill. Now multiply that by infinity, take that to the depth of forever, and you still will barely have a glimpse of what I'm talking about.
[Bill stops, Joe keeps walking, Bill takes Joes arm and stops him from getting hit by a car...again]
A Warning Against Deception and Falsehoods
William Parrish Don't blow smoke up my ass, you'll ruin my autopsy.
Living Fully in the Fast Lane
Tom Aren't you scared you'll kill yourself if you crash?
Burt Munro No... You live more in five minutes on a bike like this going flat out than some people live in a lifetime.
The Transience of Life
Ted Brautigan We're all just passing through, kiddo. Just passing through, that's all.
Spelling Invercargill: A Practical Approach
Burt Munro Invercargill, I-N-V-E-R-C-A-R-G-I-L-L. Sometimes I spell it with one L to save ink.
The Nature of Consequences and Mortality
Loki I really don't see what all the fuss is about…
[''Mock salute to Odin'']
Odin Do you not truly feel the gravity of your crimes? Wherever you go there is war, ruin and death!
Loki ].
[[The Avengers (2012 film)|I went down to Midgard to rule the people of Earth as a benevolent God, just like you]
Odin We are not gods. We're born, we live, we die, just as humans do.
Loki Give or take five thousand years.
Odin All this because Loki desires a throne...
Loki It is my birthright!
Odin Your birthright was to DIE! As a child, cast out on a frozen rock. If I had not taken you in, you would not be here now, to hate me.
Loki If I'm for the axe, then for mercy's sake, just swing it. It's not that I don't like our little talks, it's just... I don't love them.
Odin Frigga is the only reason you're still alive, and you will never see her again. You'll spend the rest of your days in the dungeons.
Loki And what of Thor? You'll make that witless oaf King while I rot in chains?
Odin Thor must strive to undo the damage you have done. He will bring order to the Nine Realms, and then, yes, he will be King.
Conflict Over Medication in The Father
The Woman I've brought you your medication.
Anthony Why don't you just fuck off with your medication?
The Value of Action Over Criticism
Burt Munro It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena...
Nixon's Confidence in Kennedy's 1964 Candidacy
Richard Nixon Nobody's gonna beat Kennedy in 64. Not with all the money in the world.
Cuban Man Suppose Kennedy don't run in 64.
Richard Nixon Not a chance.
Questioning Value and Intentions
Charles Morse So what do you value me for, Bob?
[moments before the plane flies into a flock of wild birds]
Robert Green I like your style, your wife's pretty cute too.
Charles Morse So how are you planning to kill me?
A Unique Proposition for Guidance
William Parrish You want me to be your guide?
Joe Black You fit the bill, Bill.
Faith and Perseverance in Adversity
Father Lucas Trevant Faith becomes you. Stay with it. Keep fighting the good fight with all thy might.
Michael Kovak Cool.
Father Lucas Trevant Get out of here...
Understanding Loss and Vulnerability
Anthony I feel as if I'm losing all my leaves.
The Woman Your leaves?
Anthony Yeah.
The Woman What do you mean?
Anthony The branches and the wind and the rain. I don't know what's happening anymore. Do you know what's happening? All this business about the flat. I... I have nowhere to put my head down anymore. But I know my watch is on my wrist, that I do know. For the journey. If not, I... Don't know if I'll... be ready to, uh... To... To...
Wealth and Responsibility in Aviation Ownership
Charles Morse Never feel sorry for a man who owns a plane
Understanding the Mind of a Killer
Will Graham See, that's where we're off target. He's not collecting body parts.
Hannibal Lecter Have you shared this with the Bureau?
[studies Graham for a moment]
Will Graham No, I didn't. I needed to see you first, but I'm right. I know I'm right. I'm... I'm starting to be able to think like this one.
Hannibal Lecter That's fascinating. You know, I'd always suspected as much: You are an eideteker.
Will Graham I'm not psychic.
Hannibal Lecter No, no, no, this is different; more akin to artistic imagination. You're able to assume the emotional point-of-view of other people, even those that might scare or sicken you. It's a troubling gift, I should think. How I'd love to get you on my couch.
Will Graham Something still doesn't make sense to me: you're the best forensic psychiatrist I know. And somehow, in all our time together, this possibility never occurred to you.
Hannibal Lecter Well, I am only human, Will. Perhaps I made a mistake.
Will Graham You don't strike me as a man who makes very many mistakes.
Hannibal Lecter Now I'm starting to think that I might no longer enjoy your full confidence.
Will Graham No, no, I--I didn't say that. I didn't. I don't, I don't know what I'm saying, I... I'm very, very tired. I... I almost had it.
[thinks for a minute, and then shakes his head in frustration]
Hannibal Lecter It'll come to you.
[smiles]
Embracing Guidance and the Call for Courage
John Quincy Adams ], ], ], ], ]...]. We've long resisted asking you for guidance. Perhaps we have feared in doing so, we might acknowledge that our individuality, which we so, so revere, is not entirely our own. Perhaps we've feared an...an appeal to you might be taken for weakness. But, we've come to understand, finally, that this is not so. We understand now, we've been made to understand, and to embrace the understanding...that who we are is who we were. We desperately need your strength and wisdom to triumph over our fears, our prejudices, ourselves. Give us the courage to do what is right. And if it means civil war? Then let it come. And when it does, may it be, finally, the last battle of the American Revolution.
[to the Supreme Court; [James Madison; [Alexander Hamilton; [Benjamin Franklin; [Thomas Jefferson; [George Washington; [John Adams]
Pursuing Dreams Against All Odds
Burt Munro * He is here quoting ]
[[Theodore Roosevelt]
Odin Asserts His Authority Over Jane
Odin She does not belong in Asgard any more than a goat belongs at a banquet!
Jane Did he just-? Who do you think you are?
Odin I am Odin. King of Asgard. Protector of the Nine Realms.
Jane Oh. Well I'm-
Odin I know very well who you are, Jane Foster.
Jane You told your dad about me?
[''To Thor'']
A Visitor for Hannibal Lecter
Dr. Frederick Chilton Hannibal, there's someone to see you. A young woman... says she's from the FBI, but she seems much too pretty for that if you ask me. I'll tell her you said no.
Hannibal Lecter ...what is her name?
Perceptions of Worry and Fear
Anthony You keep looking at me as if there was something wrong. Everything’s fine, Anne. The world is turning. You’ve always been that way. A worrier. Like your mother. Your mother was always scared. Always looking for reasons to be scared. Whereas your sister has always been much more... At least she doesn't keep badgering me.
[to Anne]
Unusual shoe shining tip from Charles Morse
Charles Morse Did you know you can shine shoes with the inside of a banana peel?
Dealing with Heat and Asbestos Cloth
Burt Munro I can't get my leg in because of the asbestos cloth on it.
Burt Munro Let me take it off.
Rolly Well, what about your leg and the heat?
Burt Munro Screw it. I've got a spare one.
Justice and Equality Beyond Race
John Quincy Adams This man is black. We can all see that. But, can we also see as easily, that which is equally true? That he is the only true hero in this room. Now, if he were white, he wouldn't be standing before this court fighting for his life. If he were white and his enslavers were British, he wouldn't be standing, so heavy the weight of the medals and honors we would bestow upon him. Songs would be written about him. The great authors of our times would fill books about him. His story would be told and retold, in our classrooms. Our children, because we would make sure of it, would know his name as well as they know ]'s. Yet, if the South is right, what are we to do with that embarrassing, annoying document, the ]? What of its conceits? "All men created equal," "inalienable rights," "life, liberty," and so on and so forth? What on Earth are we to do with this? I have a modest suggestion.
[to the Supreme Court; [Patrick Henry; [Declaration of Independence; tears papers in half]
Navigating Survival and Unlikely Alliances
Charles Morse You saved me.
Robert Green Get over it, Charles - I just need you to navigate.
Charles Morse You saved my life.
Robert Green Well, I couldn't kill you with Stephen around. I'd have to kill him too, and he's the only one that knows how I like my coffee.
Charles Morse Come on, you saved my life.
Robert Green Buy me something nice when we get home.
Charles Morse How'd you like your coffee?
Robert Green Huh. I like my coffee like I like my women.
Stephen Bitter and murky!
The Power of Persuasion in Dialogue
Ens. Covey What did you say to them?
[translating for Cinque after he has been set free]
John Quincy Adams Huh?
Ens. Covey What words did you use to persuade them?
[translates again]
John Quincy Adams Yours.
[looks at Cinque]
Pursuing Dreams Over Complacency
Burt Munro If you don't follow your dreams, you might as well be a vegetable.